Brooklyn, New York — A violent street attack in the heart of Crown Heights has sparked concern and heightened police presence after a 35-year-old Jewish man was stabbed in the chest Tuesday afternoon in what authorities are investigating as a possible antisemitic assault during Hanukkah.
The incident unfolded around 4 p.m. at the intersection of Kingston Avenue and Lincoln Place, a busy area in a neighborhood known for its large Jewish population. Police say the stabbing followed a verbal confrontation that escalated quickly, raising alarms amid ongoing concerns over hate-motivated violence in New York City.
What Police Say Happened
According to the NYPD, the encounter began as a seemingly random argument between the victim and another man on the sidewalk. Investigators say the suspect allegedly made antisemitic remarks during the exchange, though police caution the investigation is ongoing.
At some point, officers say the suspect attempted to disengage and walk away. The victim followed him down the street, continuing the dispute.
That is when the confrontation turned violent.
Police say the suspect pulled out a sharp object and stabbed the victim once in the chest. Despite being seriously injured, the victim continued to pursue the attacker for nearly another block before collapsing.
The suspect managed to flee the scene.
Victim Rushed to Hospital, Expected to Survive
Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported the man to Kings County Hospital Center, where he was listed in stable condition. His injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, but the attack has shaken residents.
The Crown Heights Shmira Patrol confirmed the victim is Jewish, a detail central to the NYPD’s investigation into whether the stabbing qualifies as a hate crime.
Authorities have not released the victim’s name.
Suspect Description Released
As of Wednesday, no arrest had been made. The NYPD released images and a description of the suspect in hopes of generating leads.
Police say the suspect was last seen wearing:
- A black varsity-style jacket
- Jeans
- The word “Genuine” printed on the back of the jacket
- The number “91” printed on one sleeve
Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward.
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Increased Police Presence in Crown Heights
In response to the stabbing, the NYPD said it has deployed dozens of additional officers throughout Crown Heights to reassure residents and deter further incidents.
Officials stressed that there is no immediate threat to the public, but acknowledged growing anxiety within the community, particularly given the timing of the attack during Hanukkah.
Police emphasized they are treating the investigation with urgency.
Incident Follows Another Antisemitic Threat in NYC
The stabbing occurred just one day after a separate antisemitic incident on the subway involving Jewish students returning from a Hanukkah celebration in Manhattan.
In that case, a pair of men allegedly threatened the students, shouting slurs and making violent threats. One student later said one of the attackers screamed, “I’ll kill you,” while yelling antisemitic language.
That subway incident, which went viral on social media, is not believed to be connected to the Crown Heights stabbing, according to police.
Still, the close timing of the two events has heightened concerns among Jewish leaders and residents.
Community on Edge Amid Rising Hate Concerns
Crown Heights residents say the attack has left many feeling unsettled, particularly families preparing to attend religious gatherings during the holiday week.
While New York City officials have repeatedly condemned hate-based violence, advocacy groups note that reported antisemitic incidents have risen nationwide in recent years.
Police have not yet confirmed whether the stabbing will officially be classified as a hate crime, stating that determination depends on further evidence, witness statements, and suspect motive.
Investigation Ongoing
The NYPD continues to review surveillance footage from the area and interview witnesses. Detectives say antisemitic motivation remains a key line of inquiry.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
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